Me and My Dad: A Baseball Memoir

Paul O'Neill was the undisputed heart and soul of the four-time World Series?winning New York Yankees from 1993 to 2001. A champion and an icon, he was a dedicated, intense athlete who not only wore the trademark pinstripes with pride, he bled blue and white. O'Neill epitomized the team's motto of hard work and good sportsmanship, traits instilled in him by the man who was his friend, confidant, lifelong model, and biggest fan: his dad, Chick O'Neill.

Paul O'Neill has rarely spoken publicly about the significant role his father played in his baseball career. But now, in Me and My Dad, he speaks from the heart about the man who inspired in him a love for the game and a determination to always play his best. For some, baseball is more than a game — it's a way of life. Chick O'Neill was one of those people. Paul recounts how his father, after serving as a paratrooper in World War II, pitched in the California minor league, until he discovered that his true passion was his family. Later he was devoted to his son's dream of becoming a professional ball player and was always there — from coaching Little League to being in the stadium when Paul played for the Cincinnati Reds and the New York Yankees.

In Me and My Dad, Paul also remembers the highlights of his amazing career: being called up to the majors by the Reds, his first World Series, being traded to the Yankees — and taking part in their phenomenal four World Series wins. He also reflects on his father's untimely death during the 1999 World Series and the farewell tribute given to him by his fans during his last game in Yankee Stadium.

Paul O'Neill's memories treat us to Yankee stories, hometown tales, and valuable insights into what has made him the person he is today, all of it shaped by his relationship with his father.

"While his fans may have expected some fireworks from the fiery Yankee, O'Neill proves himself to be a dedicated player devoted to his family and baseball." Publishers Weekly

"O'Neill cannot find anything but good to say about his teammates..." Booklist

"The book demonstrates a profound lesson for anyone about what a child can accomplish with a parent's steadfast love." The New York Times

"...O'Neill melds a sweet, plainspoken tribute to his father....Fans will enjoy getting a peek into the life and quirks of this formerly media-shy player." Kirkus Reviews

One of the most beloved baseball players of all time shares the poignant story of his career and his greatest inspiration — his father. O'Neill treats readers to Yankee lore, hometown stories, and valuable insights into what makes him the person he is today. 16-page photo insert.

Paul O'Neill was a right fielder for the New York Yankees. A frequent announcer and commentator on the YES Network, he lives in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Burton Rocks is the author of three previous sports-related books. He lives in Stony Brook, New York.